You will need a high clearance or 4wd vehicle to reach the caves and camping area you will still have to search carefully to find a cave entrance. Most visible cracks in the side of the canyon are actually cave entrances. There are over 20 caves and 9 slot canyons.
The caves are created when a river of water carves out the mud. Skylights are found within the cave were the rooftop soil has eroded or collapsed. Some caves are very short while others extend for thousands of feet. The cave that I entered was so long that, we eventually turned back fearing rainy weather not knowing where the cave might end. Expect to get dirty or dusty and dress appropriately.
It is absolutely essential to bring several light sources either headlamps or flashlights. As with any hike- light snacks, and water are also recommended. Beware of any inclement weather as travel in the mud caves is not advised in the rain. More importantly you should hike with at least one other person or several people if you have the option.
To get there from Agua Caliente County Park:
(high clearance or 4wd vehicle highly recommended)
Take Agua Caliente Spring Rd to, 1st right toward Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Continue straight on Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Take a left at Vallecito Creek turnoff, drive down riverbed and make a slight left at Arroyo Tapiado, Enter Arroyo Tapiado Canyon and start searching for caves
The caves are created when a river of water carves out the mud. Skylights are found within the cave were the rooftop soil has eroded or collapsed. Some caves are very short while others extend for thousands of feet. The cave that I entered was so long that, we eventually turned back fearing rainy weather not knowing where the cave might end. Expect to get dirty or dusty and dress appropriately.
It is absolutely essential to bring several light sources either headlamps or flashlights. As with any hike- light snacks, and water are also recommended. Beware of any inclement weather as travel in the mud caves is not advised in the rain. More importantly you should hike with at least one other person or several people if you have the option.
To get there from Agua Caliente County Park:
(high clearance or 4wd vehicle highly recommended)
Take Agua Caliente Spring Rd to, 1st right toward Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Continue straight on Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Take a left at Vallecito Creek turnoff, drive down riverbed and make a slight left at Arroyo Tapiado, Enter Arroyo Tapiado Canyon and start searching for caves
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